Our Story

On the challenging and remote landscape of Waiheke Island in Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf you’ll find Man O’ War. A 4,500-acre family farm with over 150-acres under vine.

Man O' War

4,500 acre Family Farm, vineyard & winery.

When you visit; as well as vineyards you’ll see our orchards, olive groves, restored native forests and beehives.

We planted our first vines in 1993. Over the next two decades we explored our farm and analysed the kingdom that lies beneath in search of the best single vineyard locations to one day make world-class wine.

Today you’ll find no less than 75 vineyards across the farm, and a few we’ve abandoned along the way. We’ve become well known for our Syrah, Chardonnay and Waiheke’s signature Bordeaux Blends. We also produce a distinctly different Sauvignon Blanc a seriously drinkable Pinot Gris and our (infamous) Rosé. 

The Bay

A beach-front tasting experience.

A hidden gem nestled at the north-eastern end of Waiheke Island, 90 minutes from downtown Auckland - the scenic journey is all part of the allure.

Enjoy wine flights or private tastings and leisurely long lunches while watching the waves wash up on the sandy shore as local boaties drop in for much needed ‘supplies'.

Forest Flight

A Foot-Free Forest Journey

Launched in 2024, following years of meticulous planning, the foot- free Forest Flight journey comprises three separate tandem ziplines spanning over 900m connected by 660m of boardwalk. 

This design allows exploration of our untouched ancient Kauri forest with minimal environmental impact, preserving it's natural beauty for the generations to come.

The Name

three hundred years of heritage

Man O’ War is steeped in history dating back to early Polynesian adventurers. The protected cove has provided safe harbour during many rough seas. The bay was named by navigators in the late 1700s.

The magnificent Kauri trees were noted in the early shipping journals, they made ideal masts for the naval Man O’ War warships, and thus the name Man O’ War was bestowed upon this special place.

The Crew

Our farm, winery and restaurant proudly employs between 25 and 75 locals and wine obsessed travellers throughout the year to bring to life the Man O'War Experience.

Our viticulture and winemaking team have remained unchanged for over a decade - helmed by winemaker Duncan McTavish.  Before visiting Man O’ War, Duncan had never been to Waiheke Island. When you visit, you’ll understand why he never left.